Today I am speaking for 70 unemployed professionals on how to stay motivated during a job search.  Being on a job search can be like riding a roller coaster; the ups and downs can be pretty extreme.  One moment you have 2 or 3 great opportunities on the table and a week later you can feel like you’ve hit ground zero – no opportunities – nothing on the horizon.  It can be very frustrating.  I don’t care how positive of a person you think you are, you’re human and we’ve all been there.

To help people maintain a positive mental attitude during a job search I have created The Mindset Makeover.  These are good habits to incorporate into your life whether you are unemployed or not.

The Mindset Makeover
Ten Tips for staying energized and positive during your job search

1. Begin your Day with Appreciation -The way you start your each morning sets the mood and tone for the rest of the day.  So as you wake up, take a moment to reflect on what you appreciate in your life.

2. Build a Schedule – By building yourself a schedule you will be able to approach each day with purpose and balance.  When you create that schedule, be sure to include not just job search time, but time for exercise, self development, family, friends and fun. The more balance you create, the better you’ll feel.

3. Take a Day Off – It is so easy to work your job search 24/7.  Give yourself permission to take a day off.  You will be more effective and refreshed when you do.

4. Focus on your Health – Exercise regularly and eat healthy. Besides being good for you, there are definite benefits from a mood and energy perspective. Try to schedule a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise into your day, don’t skip meals and avoid junk food.

5. Fertilize your Brain – Avoid the TV trap. Do things that keep you mind engaged and sharp.  Read books & magazines, take a class, listen to music & audio CD’s and engage in stimulating conversation with others.

6. Get Out of the House – A change of scene is always a good stimulus for igniting your energy and attitude.  Add some human interaction into the equation and watch you mood climb.  You are on a job search, not sentence to solitary confinement!

7. Find the Freebies – They say the best things in life are free.  Explore the many free things that are out there to do.  Concerts in the park, beach walks, street fairs and picnics are just a few of the free and fun activities you can tap into.

8.  Help Others and Volunteer – Helping people is a great way to energize you while making a difference in the lives of others. It can also open doors to new connections and possibilities for your future.

9.  Silence your Inner Critic – Negative self-talk propagates fear and inhibits action. When you hear that inner voice trying to sabotage your success, stop it dead in its tracks.  Awareness is the first step.

10. End your Day with Gratitude -What went well today?  What are you grateful for?  Create a Success Journal to help you recognize the positive actions you have taken and the successes you have achieved.

What 3 actions will you take going forward to insure maintaining a positive mental attitude?

1.____________________________________________________________________

2.____________________________________________________________________

3.____________________________________________________________________